You are not a one-trick pony

By Vanessa Finnigan

Are you someone who creates in a multitude of directions but has been told to just hone in on one area/one thing? What if as you expand and grow, there are no limits to expressing the fullness of you? And no, that doesn’t make you scatty!

You can shine your light in whichever direction you would like to express your uniqueness, and you can be of service in a multitude of ways. It was interesting, once people knew me publicly as the editor/publisher of a magazine, when I shared about the healing sessions I offered or the freelance writing I was publishing, I was often shut down. “Haven’t you got enough already with the magazine?” I had to take a close look at any belief systems I had around this myself that were reflecting the external back to me. What I found instead was a cultural pattern and glass ceiling. I could see why so many people give up and just settle for what is ‘acceptable,’ or what makes you feel comfortable and what makes you ‘fit in’.

People feel threatened when they feel like they can’t create for themselves what you are creating. But they can – and in their own way! I have noticed that sometimes the people who project the most anger at you are the ones who can be just on the edge of breaking into their own brilliance; you can be facilitating them without even realising it. Of course, if this behaviour continues long-term, you need to know when to walk away and know when it’s not for the greater good to support them.

When you realise it’s none of your business what others think or say about you, then you can just get on with creating what you desire!

Part of my process was to tune in to myself and keep going in whatever directions really called me, letting go of what others thought I ‘should be doing’ and yes, there were times I felt very alone. I started to see, though, that by being prepared to keep going and create in the way I love, it also encouraged others to do the same.

Even though it’s important not to expect the external reality to change before you do, if enough people keep going and creating in ALL the ways they love, those cultural patterns and glass ceiling start to shift.

To purchase a copy of Vanessa’s new release digital book, ‘Being Enough: Pitch, Write and Be Seen’ go to: www.holisticblissmagazine.com and the paperback version is on its way.

Meet the gorgeous and successful entrepreneur Shilpa Kotak, who recently joined our platform.

From an early age, Shilpa found herself drawn to the enchanting world of flavors and aromas. As the years passed, her passion for cooking only intensified, nurtured by the countless hours spent assisting her mother in the bustling kitchen. Not content with mere home-cooked delights, Shilpa delved deeper into her culinary odyssey by studying cooking as a subject, refining her skills with every lesson. Her family and friends were fortunate recipients of her creations, as she delighted in preparing traditional Indian delicacies for them. Shilpa’s dedication was unparalleled, and even during her school years, she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the pursuit of culinary mastery. Fueled by an unwavering determination, she decided to formalize her passion by seeking education in the art of cooking. Thus, she set forth on a life- altering journey, eventually earning the esteemed title of Patisserie Chef from the renowned Southbank Institute of Technology in Brisbane, Australia.

During Ganesh Chaturthi (Hindu religious festival) Shilpa began making a special sweet called Pista Paan for her loved ones. The demand for her delectable treats quickly grew, leading to her first order being exported from Mumbai to Singapore in 1998. Shilpa’s popularity soared, culminating in her winning the esteemed Chef of the Year award in Sydney in 2016. She continued to create unique sweets and chocolates by request and expanded her influence by teaching cooking classes in different cities.

In 2010, Shilpa even made an appearance on a cooking show aired on Sony TV. Her journey as a Patisserie Chef has been a resounding success, nurturing a fulfilling boutique business.

Shilpa worked as a Patisserie Chef at a boutique business called Pattison’s Patisserie in Sydney, where she gained valuable experience and expertise in commercial cooking for three years. In 2016, she embarked on her own culinary journey by starting Shilpa’s Veg Delectable, a venture dedicated to sharing her love for vegetarian cooking and creating unique, flavorful dishes for various events in Sydney.

With over 25 years of experience, Shilpa has successfully catered to more than 100 events, earning widespread appreciation for her delicious food. This success paved the way for the establishment of her own brand, Shilpa Kotak,
epitomizing her culinary mastery and unwavering commitment to delivering extraordinary gastronomic experiences.

In 2018, Shilpa expanded her business by venturing into the gifting industry, specializing in crafting distinctive hampers for various Indian occasions, ranging from Raksha Bandhan to Diwali. These gift hampers are meticulously tailored to match the specific event, cater to customer preferences, and accommodate various budget ranges. Thus, the birth of her new brand, Shilpa’s Toukree. These thoughtfully curated hampers encompass her homemade sweets, along with other gift items crafted by women entrepreneurs from underprivileged backgrounds in Indian villages. Notably in 2021, she produced 100 gift hampers exclusively for Commonwealth Bank, Australia’s largest bank, to celebrate Diwali.

Every year, Shilpa continues to bring joy to more than 500 customers within the Indian community residing in Australia through her delightful gift hampers.

Mastering the Art of Writing Resonant Social Media Content: Building a Strong Personal Brand and Engaging Your Audience.

By Tiya Gorain

In today’s digital age, social media has become a powerful tool for individuals and businesses to connect with their target audience and build a strong personal brand. However, with the increasing noise and competition on various platforms, it is crucial to create content that not only resonates with your ideal clients but also captivates and engages your audience. In this article, we will explore effective strategies for writing social media content that can help you build a strong personal brand while establishing meaningful connections with your followers.

1. Define Your Ideal Client:

Before crafting any social media content, it is essential to have a clear understanding of your ideal client. Consider their demographics, interests, pain points, and aspirations. This knowledge will serve as the foundation for creating content that speaks directly to their needs and desires.

2. Develop a Compelling Brand Voice:

To build a strong personal brand, it is crucial to develop a unique and authentic brand voice. Your brand voice should align with your personality, values, and the image you want to portray. Whether it’s friendly, professional, humorous, or informative, maintain consistency in your tone and language across all your social media platforms.

3. Research and Understand Your Audience:

In order to resonate with your ideal client, it’s essential to understand them on a deeper level. Conduct thorough research to identify their pain points, challenges, and the topics they are most interested in. Analyze the type of content they engage with and draw inspiration from successful posts within your niche.

4. Craft Compelling and Benefit-Focused Headlines:

In the fast-paced world of social media, capturing attention is crucial. Craft headlines that are catchy, concise, and highlight the benefits your content provides. By addressing your audience’s pain points and offering a solution or valuable insights, you can entice them to click and engage with your content.

5. Tell Authentic Stories:

One of the most effective ways to engage your audience is by sharing authentic stories. People connect with genuine experiences and emotions. Whether it’s a personal anecdote, a client success story, or behind-the-scenes glimpses, storytelling helps build trust, relatability, and a sense of community.

6. Utilize Visual Content:

Visual content has a powerful impact on social media platforms. Incorporate eye-catching images, infographics, videos, and gifs to enhance the overall appeal of your posts. Visuals not only capture attention but also help convey messages more effectively and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

7. Encourage Interaction and Conversation:

Social media is all about fostering conversations and building relationships. Encourage your audience to engage by asking thought-provoking questions, seeking opinions, or inviting them to share their own stories. Respond promptly to comments, DMs, and mentions to demonstrate your engagement and commitment.

8. Provide Value and Educate:

Share knowledge, insights, and expertise that can benefit your ideal clients. Offer tips, tutorials, or how-to guides within your niche. By positioning yourself as a valuable resource, you establish credibility and become a go-to authority in your field, attracting more followers and building a loyal community.

9. Use Humour and Emotion:

Humor and emotion are powerful tools to connect with your audience. Injecting light-hearted humor or evoking emotions such as joy, inspiration, or empathy can leave a lasting impact. However, always be mindful of your brand voice and ensure that the tone remains appropriate for your audience and content.

10. Analyse and Optimize:

Regularly analyse your social media metrics to gauge the performance of your content. Identify which posts resonate most with your audience and gain the most engagement. Use these insights to optimize your future content strategy, focusing on what works best.

The June ‘Happiness & Success’ event organized by Empowered BWB in collaboration with She Magazine, Harman Foundation & Usana was an incredible day filled with various highlights. Attendees, who were passionate about promoting holistic well-being, enjoyed insightful talks, engaging panel discussions, tantalizing healthy food tastings, and free samples of wellness products.

The reason we decided to team up with Usana is that Usana is not just a business but they have integrated a charity aspect into their operations through the Usana Foundation (https://www.usanafoundation.org/). The foundation works tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals by providing much needed assistance and resources to those in need.

Councillor Jessica Brazier, the Guest of Honour, delivered an inspiring speech on the challenges of being a super mom, sharing her secrets on balancing multiple responsibilities. Her empowering message resonated with the audience, reminding them that they have the power to achieve their dreams while fulfilling various roles in life.

Guest Speaker Rochelle Potter, the General Manager of Usana (Australia & NZ), shared her awe-inspiring story of overcoming adversity and transforming her life. Her journey served as a powerful reminder of the strength and determination that can help us overcome difficult circumstances.

The panel discussion featured remarkable individuals sharing their unique experiences and perspectives. Harinder Kaur spoke passionately about resilience and self-love, emphasizing that we have the strength within us to bounce back from challenges. Tiya Gorain bravely opened up about her battle with anorexia and the importance of self-acceptance. Her story highlighted the significance of embracing oneself.

Debbie Baird, an expert in nutrition, who joined through zoom, discussed the vital role of supplements in our diet, providing valuable knowledge and practical tips to improve dietary habits in today’s fast-paced world.

The launch of Usana India added to the excitement, offering people in India the opportunity to join Usana.

The event was skillfully navigated by the emcee Mercedes Durante, whose vibrant personality created a positive and enjoyable atmosphere throughout the day.

In addition to the talks and discussions, attendees enjoyed healthy food tastings and received free samples of wellness products, catering to their well-being journey.

Special thanks were extended to Sarita Verma, Casey Zhang, Baktash, and Davinder Sethi for their unwavering support, and Sony Sodhi, an exceptionally talented chef in Sydney, for the delicious food provided.

The event served as a reminder that our well-being is a multi-faceted endeavor, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional aspects. With the insights gained from this event, participants are now equipped to embrace a holistic approach to their personal wellness.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the guest speakers, panelists, and everyone involved in organizing this remarkable event. Their dedication to promoting health and wellness has undoubtedly inspired countless individuals to embark on their own transformative journeys.

Here’s to a healthier, happier, and more balanced future for all! 🌿✨

International Yoga Day: Celebrating Unity, Health, and Spiritual Wellness

Yoga, an ancient practice originating from the mystical land of India, has garnered global recognition and appreciation in recent times. On June 21st every year, people from all walks of life come together to celebrate International Yoga Day, commemorating the invaluable contributions of this ancient discipline to humanity. This special day serves as a reminder of the profound significance of yoga, its roots in ancient India and Hinduism, the role of Lord Shiva as the original yogi, and the ongoing relevance of this practice in modern times.

The origin of yoga can be traced back thousands of years to the Indus Valley Civilization, where archaeological excavations have unearthed artifacts depicting yogic poses. However, it was in ancient India that yoga flourished and evolved into a comprehensive system for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The foundational texts of yoga, such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the Bhagavad Gita, were written around 2,000 years ago, providing guidance on the practice and philosophy of yoga.

In Hinduism, yoga is deeply intertwined with spirituality and is considered a means to attain union with the divine. Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism, is revered as the original yogi and the Adi Guru (the first teacher of yoga). According to ancient scriptures, Lord Shiva is said to have imparted the knowledge of yoga to his consort Parvati and the Saptarishis (seven sages) in the Himalayas. Lord Shiva’s association with yoga highlights the profound spiritual connection of this practice and its integration into Hindu philosophy.

Fast forward to the present day, and yoga has transcended its origins to become a global phenomenon. Its immense popularity can be attributed to the profound benefits it offers to practitioners. Yoga encompasses a holistic approach to well-being, combining physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), meditation, and ethical principles. This comprehensive system cultivates balance, strength, flexibility, and endurance in the physical body while promoting mental clarity, emotional stability, and spiritual growth.

In modern times, where stress, sedentary lifestyles, and mental health issues have become prevalent, yoga provides a sanctuary for individuals seeking solace and balance. The practice of yoga offers a respite from the hectic pace of life, allowing individuals to reconnect with their inner selves, find inner peace, and enhance their overall well-being. Regular practice of yoga has been shown to reduce stress, improve flexibility and strength, boost cardiovascular health, promote mindfulness, and enhance mental focus.

Furthermore, yoga is a unifying force that transcends cultural, religious, and geographical boundaries. International Yoga Day serves as a reminder of the shared values and aspirations that bind humanity together. It promotes unity, harmony, and inclusivity, encouraging people from diverse backgrounds to come together and celebrate the universal principles of peace, compassion, and well-being.

In conclusion, International Yoga Day serves as a powerful reminder of the ancient roots of yoga in India and Hinduism, its deep connection with Lord Shiva as the original yogi, and its continued relevance in modern times. Yoga offers a transformative journey of self-discovery, fostering physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual growth. By embracing the practice of yoga, individuals can find harmony within themselves and contribute to a more peaceful and compassionate world. So, on this International Yoga Day, let us come together to celebrate the invaluable gift of yoga and embark on a journey of wellness, unity, and self-realization.

We recently organised a photoshoot titled ‘Garden of Elegance’ in collaboration with She magazine (https://www.shemagazine.com.au) for Silk Roots Boutique.

Silk Roots Boutique is a treasure trove of style, where every piece has been carefully chosen to exude charm, grace, and allure. Feel free to check them out on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silk_roots__boutique.

Step into a world of classic elegance with their black and white polka dot dress as seen on Cristina Casanovi (www.instagram.com/cristinacasanovi). This stunning piece combines the timeless appeal of polka dots with a modern silhouette, creating a truly remarkable ensemble.

Indulge your romantic side with their enchanting pink lacy top paired with a cute white skirt as seen on Tiya Gorain. This delicate ensemble is a symphony of grace and elegance.

Prepare to turn heads and make a bold statement with their sensational hot pink dress as seen on Cristina Casanovi. This vibrant and captivating piece is designed to command attention and radiate confidence.

Their floral dupatta as seen on Emma Mees (www.Instagram.com/emma__mees) is a captivating accessory that complements any style.

Outfits & Styling:

Silk Roots Boutique

Photography:

Emma Mees Photography (www.instagram.com/emma__mees)

Silk Roots Boutique

The purpose of our fashion features, photoshoots, online magazine issues etc, is to empower and uplift women through fashion and make them feel confident about themselves. Another purpose is to provide a platform for women in the fashion & beauty industry to showcase their talents, skills and products.

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, and a cool breeze fills the air, we know that autumn has arrived. This magical season not only brings a change in the weather but also offers valuable life lessons. It teaches us the beauty of letting go, the power of perseverance, and the hope for a new beginning, much like the cycle of seasons itself. And what better way to celebrate the spirit of autumn than by exploring the fabulous fashion it brings?

Autumn fashion allows us to express our creativity while keeping us cozy and stylish. As we transition from the light fabrics of summer, we welcome the opportunity to layer our outfits with warm and fashionable pieces. Let’s delve into some autumn wardrobe essentials and the significance they carry, reflecting the lessons autumn imparts.

🍂 Leather Jackets: Like the protective layer of fallen leaves that cover the ground, a leather jacket adds a touch of edginess and protection to our autumn attire. Just as autumn reminds us to shed the old and prepare for new beginnings, a leather jacket symbolizes strength and resilience. It encourages us to face challenges head-on, knowing we have the power to endure.

🍁 Scarves: As the air becomes crisper, scarves become our trusty companions, offering warmth and style. Much like the vibrant hues of autumn foliage, scarves bring a pop of color and personality to our outfits. They remind us that change can be beautiful and that embracing diversity adds depth and richness to our lives.

🍂 Boots: Autumn showers and muddy paths call for reliable and fashionable footwear. Boots not only keep our feet dry and cozy but also elevate our outfits with their versatility. They represent the stability and grounding we need during transitional periods. Just as trees root themselves firmly in the ground, boots encourage us to stand strong and face the winds of change with confidence.

🍁 Shawls: Wrap yourself in the elegance of a shawl, and you’ll feel the grace and beauty of autumn enveloping you. Shawls symbolize the art of letting go, as they gracefully drape over our shoulders, allowing us to release what no longer serves us. They remind us that true strength lies in embracing vulnerability and finding solace in the embrace of change.

Autumn teaches us to persevere through life’s challenges and to find hope in the promise of new beginnings. As the leaves fall, they create space for growth and renewal, paving the way for a fresh start in the coming seasons. By embracing autumn fashion and its symbolic meaning, we can reflect on the beauty of change and draw inspiration from the resilience of nature.

So, let us don our leather jackets, wrap ourselves in scarves, slip on our boots, and gracefully embrace the autumn shawls. Let us carry the lessons of this vibrant season within us, remembering to let go, persevere, and have hope for the coming spring. Just as autumn gracefully transitions into winter, we too can navigate the ebb and flow of life with grace and style.

‘Chic In The Fall’ – our May 2023 Fashion Issue in collaboration with She magazine (https://www.shemagazine.com.au/) is dedicated to the fashionable and transformative autumn season!

Supported By:

Eesha Boutique

(https://www.eeshaboutique.com)

Artantana Handmade

(https://www.instagram.com/artantana_handmade)

Light Antana Photography

(https://www.instagram.com/light_antana)

Louise Veronica Fashion Styling 

(https://www.facebook.com/louiseveronica.89)

Bani Thani Boutique

(https://www.facebook.com/Banithanisydney)

VikiLinks

(https://www.facebook.com/VikilinksAustralia)

The purpose of our fashion features, photoshoots, online magazine issues etc, is to empower and uplift women through fashion and make them feel confident about themselves. Another purpose is to provide a platform for women in the fashion & beauty industry to showcase their talents, skills and products.

We are pleased to welcome the gorgeous and talented Julie Warner, who recently joined our platform as a Supporter & Volunteer.

Julie started her first business at the age of 21, her second in 2003 from her love of travel (she has visited 130+ countries) – with a Travel planning/broker style business and in 2017 launched “Your Business Helper” (YBH). YBH helps cash-strapped, time-poor small business owners manage their online world with affordable website design, digital strategy planning and content creation services to get them found online and remembered.

Julie also established the not for profit business networking group “Independent Business Network Inc” (IBNInc) in 2008 providing business education and support to local micro and small business owners in the Hills District of Sydney. With a passion to help others in their business journey to succeed, she enjoys contributing to the local Hills District community providing an affordable, safe and inclusive space for business women and men to meet, learn and grow.

Julie also works as a NSW Government funded Business Connect Advisor and enjoys being able to work with and support local small business intenders, start ups or established businesses as they navigate all areas of running their own business. Book a No-Cost NSW Government Funded Business Connect Session: https://business-connect-register.industry.nsw.gov.au/pages/Advisor4.html?id=34b8bf3a-11aa-ea11-a96a-00155d643177&type=local

To find out more about Julie’s IBNInc Network group: https://independentbusinessnetworkinc.com/
Get in touch with Julie here: https://www.yourbusinesshelper.com.au/contact-us/

We look forward to working and collaborating with her.

In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to forget the importance of self-care and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. That’s why our fashion and wellness session was a breath of fresh air.

The session was held in a cozy and intimate setting, with the aroma of freshly brewed tea wafting through the air. The ladies greeted each other with hugs and warm smiles, dressed in fashionable outfits to feel good about themselves.

They did some knitting together. While some of the women were experienced knitters, others were trying it for the first time. But regardless of their skill level, everyone was happy to learn and create something together. As they knitted, they chit-chatted about positive things in their lives, from new opportunities to exciting travel plans.

They continued to talk while knitting and enjoying tea and snacks, exchanging ideas and uplifting each other with compliments and kind words. The atmosphere was relaxed, and everyone felt comfortable opening up and sharing their thoughts and experiences.

As the women left the session, they felt rejuvenated and inspired. They had taken a break from their busy lives to focus on self-care, connect with others, and uplift each other. It was a reminder that taking care of oneself is not only important but also fun and rewarding.

If you would like to join one of our sessions, where you will receive personalised attention as we value quality over quantity, email us at empoweredbwb@gmail.com or editor@sakhi.online.

What is Happiness?

By Tiya Gorain

Happiness is an elusive emotion that has been the subject of countless studies and debates throughout human history. It is a subjective and complex emotion that is difficult to define in a singular way. It can mean different things to different people and can be influenced by various factors such as personal experiences, culture, upbringing, and values. Generally, happiness is a positive emotional state characterized by feelings of joy, contentment, and satisfaction.

For some individuals, happiness is about finding inner peace and tranquility. This can involve practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and yoga, which help them to cultivate a sense of calm and stillness within themselves. By finding inner peace, they are able to live in the present moment, appreciate the beauty of life, and let go of stress and worries.

Others may view happiness as living life to their best potential. This involves setting personal goals, pursuing passions and interests, and constantly striving for self-improvement. This can lead to a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, as they are able to achieve their desired outcomes and live a life that aligns with their values and principles.

Being one’s highest possible self is another aspect of happiness for some people. This means being true to oneself, embracing one’s strengths and weaknesses, and striving for personal growth and development. This can involve developing skills and talents, building positive relationships with others, and contributing to the world in meaningful ways.

Helping others is another important factor in happiness for many individuals. By making a positive impact on the lives of others, they experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment. This can involve volunteering, donating to charity, or simply showing kindness and compassion to those around them.

Finally, some people view happiness as being able to leave a legacy behind. This involves making a positive impact on the world that will endure beyond their lifetime. This can involve contributing to society in a significant way, such as through philanthropy, activism, or innovation.

In conclusion, happiness is a complex and multifaceted emotion that can mean different things to different people. Whether it involves finding inner peace, living life to one’s best potential, being one’s highest possible self, helping others, or leaving a legacy behind, happiness is ultimately about living a life that aligns with one’s values and brings a sense of fulfillment and contentment. By pursuing happiness in whatever form it takes for each individual, we can all experience a more meaningful and purposeful existence.